Forbes has reinstated Saudi billionaires to its World’s Billionaires List for the first time since 2018, marking a significant shift after years of exclusion. The Kingdom now leads the Arab world with 15 billionaires collectively worth $55.8 billion, driven by economic reforms, , and improved transparency around private wealth.
– After Saudi authorities detained prominent businessmen in 2017 (including Prince Alwaleed bin Talal), the government reportedly recovered over $100 billion through settlements. These agreements allowed some tycoons to regain verifiable assets eligible for Forbes’ assessment.
– A surge of IPOs since 2020 created from publicly traded companies, particularly in healthcare (6 billionaires), diversified businesses, and finance.
– Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s economic diversification plan boosted private sector growth and market transparency, enabling better wealth tracking.
Prince Alwaleed bin Talal leads Saudi billionaires at $16.5 billion, followed by healthcare magnate Sulaiman Al-Habib ($10.9B) and retail tycoon Abdullah Al Othaim ($4.6B). The UAE and Egypt each have five Arab billionaires, but Saudi Arabia accounts for .
Forbes’ 2025 global list hit record numbers (3,028 billionaires worth $16.1 trillion), with Saudi Arabia’s return reflecting both regional economic growth and improved corporate disclosure practices. Notable omissions remain, including Mohammed Al Amoudi, suggesting ongoing valuation challenges in some sectors.
